UDOT finalizes master plan map for Utah Trail Network

Plan outlines 3,100 miles of connected paved trails to connect Utahns

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox today announced the completion of the master plan map for the Utah Trail Network.

The Utah Department of Transportation designated 2,600 miles of new paved trails and 500 miles of existing trails as part of a visionary system to connect Utahns of all ages and abilities to their destinations and communities.

Cox made the announcement during his keynote address at the Utah Transportation Conference, the state's leading forum for transportation professionals, policymakers and innovators to collaborate on building a safer, smarter and more sustainable transportation future.

"We need to spend more time outside, more time connecting with people and more time exercising, and the way we do that is through our trail system," Cox said. "The Utah Trail Network helps every Utahn commute, recreate and enjoy Utah. It's a great way to build for future generations."

Once complete, 95% of all Utahns will live within one mile of the Utah Trail Network.

The statewide trail system will eventually connect to 208 Utah towns and cities, 33 universities and community colleges, 74 high-capacity transit stations, 6 national parks and 25 state parks.

"Generations from now, people will look back and remember this as the moment Utah changed how we get around," UDOT Executive Director Carlos Braceras said. "The Utah Trail Network will connect communities in every corner of the state and give people more ways to move, explore and enjoy life here."

In 2022, Cox championed a vision for a statewide trail network to link Utahns across the state, connecting neighborhoods, schools, parks and downtowns through one system of safe, accessible paved trails.

Then in 2023, the Utah Legislature created a fund specifically for active transportation (the Active Transportation Investment Fund), to fund the Utah Trail Network, demonstrating the state's commitment to providing transportation access for all.

UDOT worked closely with communities and planning partners across the state in selecting paved trails for the master plan map. The master plan will be updated every four years.

Earlier this year, the Utah Transportation Commission approved nearly $95 million in funding to build and plan 19 new paved trails or complete existing trail gaps across the state. Several are scheduled to start construction next spring, depending on contractor schedules, supply availability and other factors like weather.